The Roots SXSW show cancelled following reported bomb threat

The Roots had a show cancelled at SXSW this weekend following reports of a suspected bomb threat.

The Roots & Friends Jam was scheduled to take place on Saturday night (March 17) at Fair Market in Austin, Texas as part of this year’s South by Southwest festival. Ludacris, Jessie Reyez, Rapsody and more were also set to perform at the event.

The group’s drummer Questlove cited “a severe emergency” in since-deleted tweets about the cancellation, while organisers have confirmed that there was a “security concern”.

According to local reports, Austin Police canvassed the venue after being made aware of a suspected bomb threat.

A statement from sponsors Bud Light reads: “Due to a security concern, we have made the difficult decision to cancel tonight’s Bud Light x The Roots SXSW Jam. After working proactively with SXSW, the Austin Police Department, and other authorities, Bud Light believes this is the best course of action to ensure the safety of our guests, staff, and artists, and appreciate your understanding. We are truly sorry to have to cancel the event, but we felt it was necessary to take all safety precautions.”

NME has approached the SXSW organisers for further comment.

The Bud Light x The Roots SXSW Jam at Fair Market has been canceled. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. #SXSWhttps://t.co/iLkmAcroAh